Sometimes, being bad just feels good – and it’s a sentiment that’s never more present than in the fashion world. From provocative ad campaigns to sartorial gambles, when it comes to this industry, the edgier you are the better. Just check out a few of our favorite bad boy designers (and try not to swoon).

Marc Jacobs: Jacobs introduced his namesake line in 1986 and went on to become the youngest designer ever to win the CFDA Perry Ellis Award for New Fashion Talent.
Bad-Boy Cred: Known as America’s bad boy of fashion, Jacobs boasts over 30 tattoos (one being SpongeBob) and constantly makes waves at Fashion Week with his use of unexpected models and backward runway shows. What he’ll do next is anyone’s guess.

Alexander McQueen: The late McQueen’s first collection debuted in 1994 and was bought in its entirety by fashion editor Isabella Blow. After the designer’s untimely death in 2010, Sarah Burton took over as the new Creative Director.
Bad-Boy Cred: McQueen dropped out of school at 16 to pursue a career in fashion. He was known for his unconventional designs and runway shock tactics. Case in point: during his S/S 1999 show, model Shalom Harlow stood on a turntable while robots spray-painted her dress.

Jean Paul Gaultier: After working for Pierre Cardin and Jean Patou, Gaultier set out to create his own womenswear line, and his first couture collection debuted in 1997. From 2004 to 2010, he served as the head womenswear designer of Hermès.
Bad-Boy Cred: His nickname is “Enfant Terrible,” which translates to “terrible child.” In 1990, the designer – known for challenging the standard views of fashion – collaborated with Madonna to create her infamous cone bra.

Nicola Formichetti: An Italian/Japanese fashion director and editor, Formichetti is most widely known as the new artistic director of DIESEL. In 2010 he was awarded the Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator.
Bad-Boy Cred: The motto of the man who created Lady Gaga’s infamous meat dress? “F*** fashion, because I love it so much I want to destroy it and start again and keep it fresh.”

Shop our favorite bad-boy designers with our Bad Boys of Fashion: Featuring Alexander McQueen Boutique, which opened Wednesday, April 24, at 11AM ET.

By Keriann Coffey, Associate Blog Editor

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The blazer is a classic closet staple – one women stole from men, and then wore better (sorry, guys). Today, this wardrobe essential comes in a bevy of styles. So to help you find the fit that suits you best, we’ve broken down the three most popular cuts (and thrown in a few styling tips, too).

Our 10 Ways to Wear: The Blazer Boutique opens Wednesday, April 24, at 11AM ET.

By Keriann Coffey, Associate Blog Editor

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Space-dying – also known as dip-dying – is a technique used to give yarn a multicolored, tie-dyed look. The dyed colors repeat themselves on a single strand of yarn in segmented patterns. When the yarn is woven, the repeating colors produce unique and unpredictable horizontal stripes. These patterns are often made with coordinating shades for a slightly subdued look, while contrasting colors can be used for a funkier feel.

Known for their knitwear, Italian fashion house Missoni has the design down pat – space-dyed chic has been one of their iconic looks since the 70s. To work this pattern into your wardrobe, start slow with a scarf then move on up to an oversized sweater or knit dress.

By Jillian Hudon, Staff Writer

Want the lowdown on fabrics and more? Follow our What Are You (Really) Wearing? column every Tuesday.   

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It’s a fact: a girl can never have too many shoes – but if that closet (or oven, or what have you) is getting a little crowded, clear out some space – by any means necessary – and make room for these three additions.

By Keriann Coffey, Associate Blog Editor

What are your favorite shoe trends for spring and summer? Share in the comments below, or tweet us at @ruelala.

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When it comes to curve-hugging numbers, the goal is to show off your shape – not your panty lines. Luckily, with Hanky Panky’s 4811 thong (or what I like to call my little lace lifesaver), there’s nothing to detract from the allure of a slinky number. The secret to the 4811’s undergarment invisibility? Well, that lies in the careful calibration of the underpinnings – something designer Gale Epstein achieved by trying on each and every prototype herself (talk about dedication).

Check out just what makes the 4811 so comfortable and, most importantly, invisible. Then go ahead and buy yourself a tight dress, just to test it out.

Watch Hanky Panky’s Sizzle Reel to learn more about the history and making of Hanky Panky underwear >

A refreshing palette change from winter’s dark neutrals, pastels are a spring wardrobe must-have. From jeans in sherbet shades to taffy-hued dresses, here’s how to tackle the color trend successfully (no Easter egg look-alikes here, I swear).

By Keriann Coffey, Associate Blog Editor

How will you be rocking pastels this spring? Share in the comments below, or tweet us at @ruelala.

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When it comes to the art of bracelet stacking, I have to be honest – there are very few rules. In my book, you can pile them up to your elbows until your coworkers kick you out of the cubicle quad for being the loudest typer ever. But, until then, mix metal chains with leather, studs with smooth watch faces, and soft hues with bold ones. As long as it’s eclectic, it will work.

By Julia Ivins, Staff Writer

How many bracelets is too many? Share in the comments below, or tweet us at @ruelala.

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Spring is all about embracing bold colors once again – and the colorblocking trend is the easiest way to do it. Go all-out with a bright shift dress in contrasting hues or ease into the style with a pair of wedges or a tote. Whatever your preference, there’s a way to incorporate graphic hues into your wardrobe this season.

1. A dress with colorful paneled patterns is a guaranteed showstopper. Just let it do all the talking by keeping your shoes and accessories neutral.

2. Step into some colorblocked heels for an easy way to integrate this trend into your entire wardrobe. Pair them with jeans, skirts, or shorts depending on how bold you want to go.

3. Don’t want to commit fully just yet? No problem – add a colorblocked tote to any jeans-and-tee outfit for a fashion-forward look without making it the focal point.

Our BCBGMAXAZRIA Boutique opens Monday, April 22, at 11AM ET.

By Brianna Lapolla, Staff Writer

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For the days you want to look your utter best, even though you’re not feeling quite there, turn to one (or several) of these figure fixers and cue newfound confidence.

1. The wrap dress. Think of the wrap dress as your wardrobe pièce de résistance – it’s flattering on absolutely every body type, and especially forgiving in non-clingy materials like thick jersey or stiff cotton.

2. The extra-large bag. Besides the benefit of being able to tote around a weekend’s worth of necessities, the extra-large bag is a goddess at making you look quite small in relation (and selectively camouflaging trouble spots in pictures).

3. The nude wedge. Just as the black heel is to black tights, the nude wedge is to bare legs. It’s a standby for looking long and lean (bonus if you master the art of streak-free self tanner).

4. The dark jean. So flattering – especially if the fit is right. Peep these tips for what will work best for you.

5. The bib necklace. A bold bib necklace will open up your decollate and instantly flatter your shoulders. (Long chains are also a go – just steer clear of chokers.)

6. The long cardi. Hello, instant butt coverage – try it in one of spring’s whispery cottons.

7. The full scarf. Like the extra-large bag, the strategically placed scarf does wonders to hide problem spots, with the added benefit of warding off cubicle-AC frostbite.

By Joanna Berliner, Editor

Have a fit tip you want answered? Check our The Fitting Room column every Monday, or tweet us at @ruelala. 

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Suits always look dapper, but keeping them unique and different from the rest takes a little extra thought. Whether playing with color (royal blue cuff links and a grey suit) or patterns (like a striped dress shirt), you’ll be sure to stand out from the crowd – in a good way. Try any of the ideas below for a stylish twist on a classic look.

Our Joseph Abboud Boutique opens Monday, April 15, at 11AM ET.

By Brianna Lapolla, Staff Writer

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